Propane an Effective Alternative to Natural Gas
Approximately 6.5 million American households use propane as their primary heating fuel. Propane is a great alternative to natural gas, which also provides you with most of the same benefits and options in heating and cooking appliances.
You will see propane sometimes referred to as liquefied petroleum gas, LP, LP-gas, or as LPG. Propane is an odorless and colorless gas, just like natural gas. Therefore, a chemical (ethanethiol) is added so that an odor will indicate if there is a leak.
Propane is delivered to homes and business by trucks often referred to as bobtails, where the propane is pumped into a storage tank. The propane then enters the house through supply pipes, which lead to various appliances such as the furnace, stove, and drier for example.
Originally, the propane storage tanks were large, aboveground tank that many felt distracted from the appearance of their home. However, recently, many propane companies have started offering homeowners and business the option of having an underground tank installed. Underground storage tanks are more expensive to install, however, most homeowners who have them installed say that the aesthetic benefits are worth the expense.
When deciding on the size of storage tank you will need, you have to consider the number of appliances you have as well as what your future needs may be. For example, if you have a propane cook-top, dryer, and hot water heater, but are planning on installing a fireplace or other appliance, then you need to purchase a tank that is large enough to meet your future needs. This will eliminate the expense of having to re-excavate your smaller tank and replacing it with a lager tank. To help you select the correct size, speak with your propane dealer about a tank, which will meet all of your needs.
As for what appliance that can be used with propane, the answer is cook-tops, ranges, ovens, water heaters, furnaces, fireplaces, barbecues, space heaters, swimming pool, and spa heaters. Just make sure that when you purchase your appliance, that you specify that you will be using propane. In addition, make sure that you purchase appliances that have low energy usage ratings. For added savings, look for appliances that have electronic ignition. With an electronic ignition, the pilot light does not continuously burn.
Related posts:
Posted in About The Furnace